The IONIQ 5 N: Hyundai's Record-Setting Performance EV
Hyundai Motor Company’s IONIQ 5 N TA Spec has set a new benchmark for EV performance, achieving the fastest lap time at the prestigious Attack Tsukuba 2025 motorsport event in Japan.
Held on 15 February at Japan’s legendary Tsukuba Circuit, which is known for its tight, technical layout, the event provides a challenging platform for competitors to push the limits of their vehicles.
Hyundai N took centre stage with its IONIQ 5 N TA (Time Attack) Spec, piloted by renowned Japanese professional driver Nobuteru Taniguchi.
“I’m honoured to have had the opportunity to drive the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N TA Spec at Attack Tsukuba 2025, which enabled me to significantly break my previous EV record,” said Taniguchi.
“The IONIQ 5 N TA Spec stops well and handles excellently. Despite the power, the control is outstanding, with great cornering and smooth, stable corner-exit. I could push the car to the limit with real confidence.”
A motorsport pedigree: From Pikes Peak to Tsukuba
The latest achievement adds to the IONIQ 5 N TA Spec’s motorsport pedigree, having secured victory at the 2024 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (PPIHC) in the modified production electric SUV category, setting a new record.
Despite its motorsport enhancements, the IONIQ 5 N TA Spec remains largely true to the production-spec IONIQ 5 N, showcasing the strengths of Hyundai’s consumer vehicles.
It retains the standard car’s high-performance power electronics (PE) system with software tuning that boosts maximum output to 687 PS. The rear motor’s power was increased by 37 PS compared to the standard IONIQ 5 N.
Advanced motorsport enhancements
Several motorsport-specific upgrades optimised the EVs performance at Tsukuba:
- N Active Sound+ with modified speakers emitting over 120 dB
- Shock absorbers and motorsport-grade brakes
- 18-inch Yokohama ADVAN 005 slick tyres
- High-downforce aerodynamic package
- Recaro Pro Racer SPA Hans seat and a Sabelt six-point safety harness
- PPIHC-spec roll cage and EV fire suppression system
The enhancements enabled the IONIQ 5 N TA Spec to clock a lap time of 57.446 seconds, making it the fastest EV ever to lap the Tsukuba Circuit—nearly two seconds ahead of the nearest EV competitor.
The record-breaking performance highlights Hyundai’s technological prowess and reinforces Hyundai Mobility Japan’s position in the country’s growing EV market. Hyundai recently expanded its Japanese EV portfolio with the launch of the INSTER sub-compact electric SUV.
Joon Park, Head of N Management Group, stated: “Today’s record is a clear demonstration of Hyundai’s commitment to advancing EV technologies and delivering exceptional performance.
“The IONIQ 5 N TA Spec’s new record, using primarily production components, is not only a significant milestone that validates our technological prowess but demonstrates Hyundai N’s commitment to bringing high-performance EVs deeper into global car culture through events such as Attack Tsukuba.”
A call for sustainable motorsport recognition
Hyundai’s success at Tsukuba is a testament to its ability to bridge performance and sustainability.
It calls for greater recognition of EV achievements in motorsport and advocates for policies that incentivise sustainable technologies and EV innovation.
With the IONIQ 5 N TA Spec’s victory, Hyundai continues to lead the way in EV performance innovation, marking a new era for motorsport and EVs alike.
Stay informed and inspired with the EV Magazine community by signing up for our free weekly newsletter. Each week, receive in your inbox the latest industry news and in-depth insights into the world of electric vehicles, sustainability and cutting-edge innovations
Subscribe now, don’t miss the opportunity to stay ahead in the fast-evolving EV industry.
EV Magazine is a BizClik brand.
